Nomura Securities and Awa Bank Business Alliance in Private Securities Business January 31, 18:17

Nomura Securities, the largest securities company, and Awa Bank, a regional bank in Tokushima Prefecture, have partnered in the securities business for individuals, such as the sale of investment trusts. We aim to improve profitability by combining the know-how of securities majors and the customer network of regional banks.

According to the announcement, the two companies have agreed on a business alliance in the securities business on the 31st.

Awa Bank is responsible for sales of stocks and mutual funds, and Nomura Securities manages securities accounts of bank customers. Nomura Securities aims to develop local customers by leveraging its banking network.

Awa Bank also wants to improve profits by selling various financial products of securities majors as profits have been declining in recent years.

Nomura Securities is the second company to partner with a regional bank in the securities business, after Sanin Godo Bank in Shimane Prefecture.

The operating environment of regional banks is becoming severe due to low interest rates and declining population. Recently, major financial institutions and regional banks have joined forces, such as a major online finance company, SBI Holdings, and Fukushima Bank of Fukushima Prefecture have entered into a capital and business tie-up.